Adolph James Neuman

Adolph “Dolph” Neuman, 86, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at Oak Hill Hospital in Brooksville, Florida.

Born on August 20, 1939, Dolph grew up in Geneva, Ohio, where he was known in his younger years by the nickname “Butch.” He graduated from Geneva High School with the Class of 1957. He was preceded in death by his sister, Bertha Marhefka and his first wife, Greta.

Following high school, Dolph proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was assigned to the USS Canisteo (AO-99) and was honorably discharged in October 1961 with the rank of Shipfitter's Mate Second Class. His naval service remained a source of quiet pride throughout his life.

After leaving the Navy, Dolph became the first member of his family to attend college. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Kent State University in August 1965, followed by a Master’s degree in education in June 1967- accomplishments that reflected both his determination and his belief in the power of learning.

In August 1961, Dolph married his first wife, Greta.  After completing his education, he moved with his young family to Lake County, settling in Perry, Ohio. A man of many interests, Dolph was a passionate professional canoe and kayak racer amassing over 100 trophies and regularly competing in and winning the annual Mad Hatter Canoe race on the Ohio Grand River. He also raced throughout Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Indiana. In 1971, at the birth of his first son he retired from racing and dedicated over 30 years to teaching middle school Industrial Arts with Mentor Public Schools. Students and faculty knew him for practical skills, steady presence, and commitment to teaching.

Service to his community extended beyond the classroom. Dolph started volunteering as a firefighter in Perry in the late 1970’s and, upon retiring from teaching, continued the calling by serving as “Assistant Fire Chief. In that role, he was active in numerous firefighter’s associations at both the local and state levels, contributing his leadership and experience to the profession he deeply respected.

After retiring from the fire service in 1993, Dolph and Greta spent winters in Weeki Wachee, Florida, embracing the warmer climate, boating, woodworking, local wildlife, and especially the fishing he so enjoyed. Greta passed away on August 10, 2011, just shy of their 50th anniversary.

Dolph was fortunate to find love again and in April 2014, he married Sheila Heinrichs Neuman, with whom he shared his later years in Timber Pines, Florida. Dolph as a devoted husband and loved surprising Sheila regularly with flowers, woodcarvings he’d made, and other gifts. They enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and Canada, especially, by train. Dolph loved his rescued cats and is deeply missed by Toby, whom he adopted in 2024. Dolph was devoted to his family and generous with both his time and talent, always offering to lend a hand. He was also extraordinarily proud of his wife, sons, stepchildren and grandchildren.

Dolph is survived by his wife, Sheila Neuman of Timber Pines, Florida; his two sons Jim Neuman (Greta) of Augusta, Georgia, and Mike Neuman (Anysia) of Ashtabula, Ohio; Stepchildren Hope (Pete) Ortega, Craig (Gladys) Heinrichs; grandchild, Lucka; step grandchildren Jordan, Caleb, Jacob, Justin, Kayla; extended family, friends, and colleagues who will remember him for his service, integrity, and devotion to family and community.

“I’m not here for long time, let’s make it a good time.” – Dolph

You did just that Dolph, cheers!

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